DOC'S DESK

     I'm constantly reminded daily of the subject of Bird Flu, H5N1 and H5N2.  It seems that more and more articles are published on this potentially very dangerous virus.  I've included an article that was published in the Houston Chronicle today.  Please read it and the other link that I've included on "Spanish Flu" or "La Grippe".  I do not believe we are prepared for a pandemic if this Bird Flu virus mutates to a human-to-human transmissable strain.  The "Spanish Flu", H1N1, was just that and it was a deadly pandemic.  The Bird Flu, as it exists now, is transmissable from birds to humans and is very closely related to the H1N1 virus.  My understanding of this Bird Flu virus is that it will remain fairly isolated as long as it remains in that form.  If this Bird Flu virus mutates into a human/human form, we could be in trouble.  Doc 

Houston Chronicle Article: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/metro/3752307.html

Spanish Flu Article: http://virus.stanford.edu/uda/

Posted by webmaster at 10:03 PM | Permalink

     March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month.  Some facts about Colon Cancer you need to know:

1.  1 in 17 people will develop colon cancer

2.  Second leading cause of cancer death in U.S.

3.  Does not show symptoms until in advanced stages

4.  Colonoscopy is the most effective screening method

5.  90% survival rate at 5 years with early detection

6.  Removal of pre-cancerous polyps can prevent 90% of colon cancers

7.  Colonoscopy can detect and treat pre-cancerous polyps

8.  American Cancer Society recommends colonoscopy starting at age 50, or earlier with risk factors.   Doc   

Posted by webmaster at 05:18 PM | Permalink